Tuesday, March 27, 2007

FIFA grants third Goal Project for football development in Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has greeted FIFA's recent announcement of its success in securing its third Goal Project with delight.

SIFF General Secretary Eddie Ngava says that this third project is part of the Federation's ongoing infrastructure development programme.

He says that FIFA has once again recognized the usefulness of the Goal Project's contribution to football development here in Solomon Islands, hence, the approval of the 3rd Goal Project.

The project application had covered the construction of academies and playing fields in the two provinces, namely Noro in the Western Province and Auki, in Malaita Province.

"Of course these projects would also attract local contributions for which the two respective provinces have given assurance during the initial negotiations made with them during 2006," he adds.

The FIFA Goal Bureau approved and awarded Solomon Islands its third goal project in its meeting on March 23, 2007. This project amounts to US$400,000 (SBD$3.1m)

Speaking in a statement to SIFF president Martin Alufurai, FIFA president Joseph Blatter describes the goal project as one of his priority areas.

"In light of my long-lasting commitment to the universality of football and of the necessary solidarity within the World football family, I am pleased to inform you that your member association is one of the countries selected. This will enable you to realize a third priority project of your association within the framework of football development in your country."

The FIFA president stresses that the all useful information relating to the next steps of the Goal Procedure will be sent to SIFF in the near future.

"I am convinced that you will do your utmost to achieve this project and thank you in advance for all your efforts."

TARD is a neutral, non-profit, "youth initiated, youth led" volunteer group established in August 2005 by To'abaita (a geographical region in Solomon Islands) university students studying in Fiji, with a goal to bridge community development barriers and pursue potential rural community initiatives and aspirations for North Malaita Constituency, Malaita Province, Solomon Islands.

We are also committed to promote community awareness on important issues including gender equality, human rights, health and sanitation, education, cultural preservation, and good governance in the North Malaita Constituency. TARD membership currently comprises more than fifty scholars and young working elites in several countries throughout the Pacific. We hope to achieve our vision by working in partnership with the national government, provincial leaders, rural communities, and genuine donors.

Our vision for North Malaita and the Solomon Islands is that of a safe and sustainable society, whose people are healthy and prosperous.

Our mission is working for a better tomorrow. This can be achieved by helping rural communities make informed decisions and implement potential community development initiatives that will benefit them.

2. TARD Partial Bursary Scheme for North Malaita community high school & Vocational students [At least 50 scholarships each worth SBD$200 to start in sem 2 2008 until sem 1 2009]-Supported by generous donation